Low Ferritin, Normal Iron

My Ferritin tested low (18) and iron is normal (>100) with high/normal IBC. Can this level of Ferritin cause diffuse hair loss/shedding? I've lost about 1/2 of my hair over the past year, and I'm a young female. What would cause the Ferritin to be low but normal iron levels, is this the first stage of Anemia?

A low serum iron and ferritin with an elevated TIBC are diagnostic of iron deficiency. The most important lab value is a low serum ferritin, which reflects body stores of iron. (The gold standard is a bone marrow biopsy showing low iron stores, but a biopsy is not necessary in most cases.) Your Fe (iron) level could be normal because of early iron deficiency, which is most likely in your case as your doctor explained to you or because other inflammatory processes are going on in your body, since Fe (iron) levels are also an acute phase reactant.

Hair loss can occur with anemia. Also I'm sure your thyroid has been checked as that can cause hair loss too. Also telogen effluvium can occur months after a pregnacy or stressful event.

The Content on this Site is presented in a summary fashion, and is intended to be used for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a diagnosis of any health or fitness problem, condition or disease; or a recommendation for a specific test, doctor, care provider, procedure, treatment plan, product, or course of action. Med Help International, Inc. is not a medical or healthcare provider and your use of this Site does not create a doctor / patient relationship. We disclaim all responsibility for the professional qualifications and licensing of, and services provided by, any physician or other health providers posting on or otherwise referred to on this Site and/or any Third Party Site. Never disregard the medical advice of your physician or health professional, or delay in seeking such advice, because of something you read on this Site. We offer this Site AS IS and without any warranties. By using this Site you agree to the following Terms and Conditions. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your physician or 911 immediately.